AMLC files asset forfeiture on flood control scandal assets

MANILA, Philippines — The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has filed three civil forfeiture cases for assets tied to individuals and entities linked to the alleged anomalous flood control projects.

In a statement on Wednesday, March 25, the AMLC said it filed the forfeiture cases before the Regional Trial Court of Manila. 

“Following the extensive investigation and finding of probable cause, the AMLC filed three Petitions for Civil Forfeiture before the Regional Trial Court in Manila, the AMLC said. 

The petitions cover a vast array of properties previously placed under Freeze Orders by the Court of Appeals. To prevent the dissipation of these assets while the cases are litigated, the RTC has already issued two Provisional Asset Preservation Orders.

These orders ensure that the monetary instruments and real estate involved remain under the court's jurisdiction until a final judgment is reached.

According to the AMLC, the investigation into the flood control scandal is one of the most complex in recent history due to the sheer volume of data involved.

“The investigation covers numerous entities, interconnected accounts, and a wide range of assets, requiring the examination and reconciliation of voluminous financial documents, transaction histories, and supporting evidence,” the AMLC said. 

“Thousands of accounts and multiple layers of transactions had to be carefully confirmed, verified, and analyzed to establish clear linkages and trails,” it added.

The council stressed that it is proceeding with deliberate care, noting that the intricacy of the data requires absolute accuracy.

By ensuring that all evidence is complete and robust, the AMLC aims to uphold the integrity of the investigation and present cases that can withstand the highest levels of judicial scrutiny.

“The filing of civil forfeiture cases is the final step to ensure the recovery of illicit proceeds linked to flood control project anomalies. The action marks the first of several petitions to be filed, all aimed at recovering funds tied to corrupt practices involving flood control projects,” the AMLC said. 

As of January 2026, the AMLC said assets frozen in connection with the case have reached P24.7 billion.